Comic Book Classroom Granted 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Tax Status

Denver Comic Con and Literary Conference (DCC), a program of Comic Book Classroom (CBC) designed to help promote literacy through pop culture, was recently granted exemption from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

“In practical terms, individuals and organizations can now make tax deductible donations to CBC and we can apply for grants,” said Christine Tubbs, CBC executive director. “But it’s also affirmation that we’re developing the organization in the right way—the IRS approving an application—including our financials, mission and associated programming—with zero requests for revisions or clarifications is rare.”

Section 501(c)(3) permits an exemption for a nonprofit organization operated exclusively for the promotion of social welfare. The organization must engage primarily in activities to promote the common good and general welfare of people in the community, and not primarily provide benefits to its members.

CBC applied for the tax status in October 2012. But because there are roughly 1.2 million nonprofits in America and approximately 300 to 500 IRS agents assigned to them, the application process is lengthy.

“We’ve been waiting a long time for the approval letter, but we couldn’t be more pleased to know that the IRS supports the work we’re doing and believes we deserve taxed deferred status to affect change for kids’ literacy and arts skills,” said Tubbs.

About Denver Comic Con
Entering its third year, the DCC is Denver’s premiere fan experience, covering the worlds of comic books, film, and related media. It is also an extension of and an awareness builder for its parent organization, Comic Book Classroom. For the latest news and information, visit http://www.denvercomiccon.com.

About Comic Book Classroom
Comic Book Classroom is a charitable organization that educates through alternative approaches to literacy, learning, and character development. CBC creates programs for underserved students, schools, and communities via comic books, graphic novels, and related media. CBC is the organizer and producer for the DCC. http://www.comicbookclassroom.org.